In 1954, at Namutamba village in what was then Mubende District (now Mityana District), a child was born who would grow to become a significant figure in Uganda's arts and cultural scene. He was given the name Alex Kigonya Mukulu.
Alex Mukulu was born to the late Paulo Kayizi Lugaizi and the late Victoria Ndagire. The family lived in Misebe village in Singo County, and at that time, their parish was Namutamba. His parents were tea farmers who worked hard to earn money to educate Alex Mukulu and his other siblings.
Now, 72 years since his birth in 1954, Alex Mukulu has witnessed tremendous changes in the country. Born in what was Mubende District, his home area is now part of Mityana District.
In 2007, when the British Queen and her delegation visited Uganda, Alex Mukulu was given the responsibility of leading the cultural entertainment that showcased Uganda's tourism and development potential. He performed this task excellently, and the visiting dignitaries, including the British Queen's delegation, returned home praising the talent and creativity that Alex Mukulu displayed in the performances they witnessed.
Today, at the headquarters of the Uganda National Cultural Centre - the National Theatre, all the artists gathered formally to look back and honor Alex Mukulu. Charles James Sekubuge, Manager of SALT Media and leader of a musicians' association, warned people against pretending to be what they are not and claiming to know people they don't truly know.
Sekubuge praised Alex Mukulu for the wisdom he has invested in his creative work, as well as the friendship he has maintained with various artists, especially in theatre and music.
Many government officials attended the National Theatre event to honor Alex Mukulu, including:
· Nyombi Thembo, head of UCC (Uganda Communications Commission)
· Various ministers
· Fellow artists including John Ssegawa, Andrew Benono Kibuuka, Abey Mukibi, and many others
Nyombi Thembo, speaking on behalf of the government, gave artists hope that the government will begin to support their creative work more substantially.
Minister Mary Kutesa Kamuli, responsible for community development, speaking on behalf of the government, stated that Alex Mukulu has left a great legacy. She encouraged fellow artists to put more effort into their creative work so they can take this great legacy forward and also deliver the government's message effectively.
Wilson Bugembe, also an artist present at the event, thanked God for Alex Mukulu's life and encouraged other artists to give thanks to God for their own lives.
Other artists including John Ssegawa, Sam Bagenda, and others paid tribute to the late Alex Mukulu, reflecting on what they have learned from him and what they will continue to build upon, knowing that his influence will not end with his passing.
Alex Mukulu's family, led by his wife and children, attended the event along with fellow artists and everyone who had been present when their loved one breathed his last.
Because Alex Mukulu has been a great pillar in the arts and culture that have greatly benefited this nation, the government has decided to give him an official burial. Minister Milly Babirye Babalanda, responsible for Presidential Affairs, issued a statement on her X (formerly Twitter) account confirming this decision.
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